The Old Globe in Balboa Park is a must-do for lovers of live theater. Its exterior architecture was inspired by Shakespeare's original Globe Theatre in England. The size and shape of the orchestra and balcony brings the audience close to the actors for a great experience. Acoustics are excellent. Earlier this month, we saw Ibsen's "Hedda Gabler" here with Katie Holmes starring in the title roll. She was terrific. Our seats in the 4th row were We arrived early with friends and enjoyed the outdoor patio area before the doors opened. Every staff member we encountered -- from ticket office to ticketed to usher -- was personable and helpful . The Old Globe sits behind the Museum of Us. There's valet parking, but self-parking is a 5-10 minute walk away. Restrooms in the theater are on the lower level read more

The Old Globe - Exterior - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

I had the pleasure of attending August Wilson's "Fences" Theatrical Production here on 05/02/2026 for the 2p matinee showing. Our 4 person group was super excited about the show. I arrived at 1:15p and it took me 35 min to find parking. As a SD Resident, I had to go online to apply and purchase a $5 Residential Parking permit. It took about 5-6 mins on the website from my phone. In the meantime, while waiting on approval for my residential permit. I had to pay $16 for parking for 2 hrs and 10mins. The show was awesome. The seats were comfortable and we were seated right in the middle of the theatre. The sound, temperature, lighting, and ambiance great here. The only issue that I have is that the 2p show attendees are not allowed to order food at intermission. Food orders must be made on a mobile app prior to going into the theatre for the show, then they are able to pick up their orders at intermission. Overall, the show was wonderful and we were able to meet the cast afterwards as they had to come out for their dinner. We tried not to hold them up, so we just sort of made sure that we let them get going after about 5-7mins. We were able to take photos. I took a star off because of the long stairwell and slow elevator to get to the downstairs restroom. Also, the food situation is a bit disappointing. Luckily, we made reservations at The Prado restaurant after the show. read more

What's not to love about the old globe? They have multiple venues all under the heading of old globe I have been to the outdoor venue to see a Shakespearean play. The seats are very narrow so if you're tall or larger, it can be an uncomfortable situation. I've seen multiple plays and musicals at the other venues and they're much more comfortable but still small They occasionally have food trucks that serve food outside that you can purchase prior to your event There is a concession stand that sells snack, snacks drink drinks, and alcohol read more

I love this theatre. Great plays in a smaller intimate theatre. Every seat has a good view of the state.

Ticket booth people are so patient and informative - they were having a tech problem with sending out digital tickets, but were very good about explaining the problem and how it would be solved that my concerns were gone even though I never did get them on my phone. The central plaza was decorated beautifully for the season. Concessions and gift shop were both open, and seating was readily available about an hour before the show. We saw Scrooge's Big SD Christmas. The one liners with a SD touch were hilarious! These actors are true pros, and the intimate venue meant there wasn't a bad seat in the house. I'm so thankful we have such talent in our city! read more

The Old Globe - Christmas tree at the Old Globe. - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

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Such a magical venue to see shows! Always a great experience coming to the theater, always feels intimate! We are so lucky to have a spot like this in town! read more

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One of the most beautiful places at the Balboa Park with the mant performances that has been performaned tp the areas of William Shakezpere to the Grinch that stole Christmas. The performances of the tamming of the shrew and the greatest of Romeo and juliet. The outside of the theater you see the atmosphere for the stages of England many were outside. The Old Globe it has the atmosphere of the theater for the performances you can hear the laughter for the theater is in the round the sp9tlights for the performers bring to life thr many shows and the musical performances the music of the night tgat fill the theater stage ad the any actors and singers bring the plays to life. The plays of Roneo and Juliet the young lovers that durring the timez when english families had many rules the Old Globe Theater brings to life the plays of Old English to the Modern Day plays. Of the many plays that have drawnin so manynwas the plays of William Shakespere for the Old Globe is one of the many for the Old Globe that has the outside atmosphere. The stores they gave there you can buy things before and after and at the intermission. They have food you can buy to the english food and the sweets they have the Old Globe makes nights an adventure. read more

The Old Globe located in the beautiful Balboa Park is a must if you like going to musicals. I went to the Grinch and it was sooo good! This is a smaller venue and great because it is more intimate. Parking is scarce and is they are charging now at Balboa Park. Overall, I would check this venue out and maybe walk around Balboa Park before or after the show. read more

The Old Globe - The Grinch! - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

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What an interesting Theatre.... No bad seat in the house. Historic. Almost feels like you have entered another country read more

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The Grinch is one of our favorite SD holiday traditions. The Old Globe is so festive this time of year. Shout-out to Matt P in group sales for making it easy for our group to secure tickets. read more

The Old Globe - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

Balboa Park has many iconic and historical architectural buildings, and the Old Globe is one of them. It is a replica of the original Shakespeare's theatre in England. Interesting fact...The Old Globe burned down in 1978 and was rebuilt in 1982. We have enjoyed many plays and the recurring The Grinch musical at the re-built Old Globe. Not a bad seat in the house! Only gripe I have is that the bathrooms are only located at the basement. Old Globe also provides optional valet parking in the back, and there is a quick food service right outside of the Old Globe. read more

It's been years since I have rated any production at the Old Globe as worthy of five stars. "One of the Good Ones" is certainly worthy. The set is spectacular. It encompasses the entire stage, beyond the curtain line and seemingly right into the audience. The decor is Danish Modern and the color palettte is breathtaking. There are no set changes during the performance. No intermission, either. Only five cast members, one of which is used only two times, for comic relief and narrative resolution. My favorite is the volcanically eruptive father, played with perfect timing and emotion. The daughter at times seems to be merely reciting her numerous lines, but that may be consistent with her character as a recent college grad. The acting is superb. The comedic timing is perfect. The narrative is interesting, both on a comedic level and on a substantive level. One interesting thematic element is a discussion of, and distinction between nationality and ethnicity. Very appropos given current times and events. A fabulous production, head and shoulders above most recent Old Globe offerings. read more

My wife and good friends from out of state (but lived in San Diego) went to see "Ebenezer Scrooges Big San Diego Christmas Show". It was in the Sheryl & Harvey White theatre. The venue was great. Every seat in the place looks good. The show and acting was fantastic! The creativity of the script was amazing. The San Diego references were genius. The show was hilarious. We loved it and highly recommend it. A great time was had by all. Thank you Globe!!! read more

First time at this theater. We had balcony seats and I really don't think there is a bad seat in this house. Everyone there was personable and attentive. The interior was beautiful with pleasant details around. Saw Regency Girls and if you have a chance, go see it before it leaves. read more

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I visited on the third Tuesday of the month, which offers free admission for residents. During the tour, we explored three different theaters, one of which exclusively stages Shakespearean plays. We learned about the history of these theaters, including past fires that led to their destruction and subsequent reconstruction. In one of the theaters, we had the unique opportunity to go beneath the stage for a behind-the-scenes tour, including a look at the costume and wardrobe department, among other areas. The third theater was a circular design, and it was fascinating to learn about its remodeling history. The tour began at 10:30 AM and lasted until 11:45 AM, with approximately 20 participants. Since it fills up quickly, it's essential to book as soon as reservations open. read more

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I saw the grinch in November, with my niece. It was a great experience, and has someone become a family tradition. This year's performance was great and I loved the artwork incorporated into the show! read more

The Old Globe - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

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A long time season ticket holder but never saw "The Grinch". I just saw it last week. What an amazing cast and performance! Young and old alike should see this show. Music is amazing. The ushers are helpful. The historic theatre is beautiful. Please support Local theatre and see this show! read more

The Old Globe - Balboa Park - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

Have a pass to see so many shows here and they are all so well done and the acting, stage, and story-lines keeps me very intrigued. So far my favorite has been Destiny of Desire. Can't wait to see many more as they come. Great staff, awesome location, and super fun! read more

The Old Globe - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

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The Old Globe Theatre is one of my favorite places in San Diego. I've been to countless shows over the years and am finally taking the time to review this local treasure! Built in 1935, the Old Globe was modeled after Shakespeare's Old Globe in London. Every season features a couple of Shakespeare performances in the summer, and every holiday season there are performances of How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Ebenezer Scrooge's BIG San Diego Christmas Show, and the courtyard is transformed with a Dr. Seuss Christmas tree for the festive holiday spirit. There are a couple of theaters but I've only seen performances in the main one. It's small enough that no matter where you are, you'll have a great view of the stage. Row N has a bit more leg room and no one behind you -- that's my favorite row to sit in! The seats are comfortable but are a bit narrow, so if you're plus sized you might feel a little cramped. Rather than overpriced snacks like at other theaters, there's Lady Carolyn's Pub that serves more substantial fare. You will only be able to bring drinks with kids into the theater though, so plan accordingly. read more

The Old Globe - The Old Globe Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

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Great spot to take in a show - there isn't a bad seat in the house. The theater feels just-right in size - the audience is large enough to bring energy to the performance, but the space is small enough to feel intimate and comfortable. Perhaps some patrons feel a bit too comfortable as some folks seem to think it's acceptable to prop their feet on the chair in front of them if it's empty. I suppose the house staff tries to manage this, but people can be so prickly these days that maybe they overlook it. At the few shows we've attended, we were happy that phone etiquette was generally nicely observed. Parking can be a bit tricky, so it's best to allow some extra time to find a spot. I believe they now offer a paid parking option to allow patrons to skip the hassle, but we haven't tried it. Pre- and post-show dining options are limited within Balboa Park, but The Prado is very close and does a fabulous sangria. :) read more

The grinch is a beautiful show. The globe is a wonderful and intimate theatre. The box office and house staff on the other hand, absolutely ruined our experience. We apparently went to an age restricted show for my sons birthday, however it was not communicated to us at any point in the purchasing process prior to the event. When we arrived, they wouldn't refund us, get us tickets to another show, or try to accommodate the situation. They rather lied and tried to gaslight the situation, upcharged me for an additional ticket, and split me and my family. They sent security to intervene but the incredible guard ended up being the most reasonable human who sheparded the only ounce of compassion, sensibility and customer service of the whole evening. I came home and researched the policy, and after purchasing the additional ticket, I would have been in compliance and should have been able to watch the show. Instead the staff acted petty and inappropriate in intentionally targeting me and my son. While I didn't get to sit with my kids for the show, and the box office mistreated my family and harmed our evening, my kids were able to finally see the end and the over 400 dollars spent wasn't a complete waste. The best part was, our seat neighbors complimented my son's theatre etiquette as we left the show. The theater is an experience but the staff could really stand some basic customer service training. read more

Crappiest Black Friday website I've ever seen! They put you in he queue, which is fine except when it's your turn, it just drops you at the main menu. There are no directions on how to get to the discounted tickets. After 5 minutes, I moved on. read more

We came to watch Grinch! It is so impressive. The stage setup was nice. What I love the most is their performance, the actors are so professional. They act and sing so well. The whole show is just very beautiful. We enjoyed it so much. read more

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Cool venue. We watched a show in the round. Small cozy and intimate theater. Can't wait to return.

Second time going to the old globe for the grinch! Love this place! The show was also great! read more

The Old Globe - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

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I love bringing my son here to see Shakespearean plays. It's such a wonderful night with the open air theater. I'm never disappointed with the talent on the stage. I'm going to miss it when I move away. read more

The Old Globe - Intermission of the play Twelfth Night - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

We had our first experience at the Old Globe this week at the Grinch Who Stole Christmas show. The show itself was fantastic with the combination of an excellent cast, music, props, and choreography! The theater is indoors but on the smaller side. A few things to note: - it is freezing inside! I'm talking even with your jacket on it's cold - there is barely any leg space (I'm only 5'5 and my knees almost touched the chair in front of me) so I can imagine it's uncomfortable for someone who's tall and it's impossible to get in and out of your row - don't go during the balboa December lights (you'll never find parking...balboa is already busy on most weekends but there was insane traffic during the December lights) - rush to the bathroom right as the show ends if you don't want to end up in a long line Overall, a positive experience! read more

Great little theater with amazing actors and fantastic shows! I would highly recommend bringing the family for How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It's a very interactive, yet classic show for everyone! read more

The Old Globe - How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

The Old Globe never disappoints! I've come here a few times for plays that spark my interest, and am always impressed by the professionalism and performances of the casts. They usher you in, and make everything go smooth. Love the Old Globe, and will faithfully support their causes! read more

Been coming to the Old Globe for over 20 years for various productions and always love it. Saw several Shakespeare plays here over the years. We especially enjoy The Grinch performance during November/December. It's much better than you would expect. The production is top notch and the singing/acing is great, like a real Broadway production! I also love how each theater is small so you always have a great view, even from the back or sides. Only downside is finding parking, which is usually far away. read more

Love love love the Old Globe Theater. Come every year for the Grinch Play - Andrew Polec is the best Grinch they could've cast for the role. He's incredible! The theater is beautiful both inside and out, with lots to do nearby in the park. read more

Very nice theater in Balboa Park. Visibility is the stage is good no matter where you sit. read more

The Old Globe - Performing Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

!PARKING SUCKS! The shows here are very close to professional. Very, very close. It's really as good as you're going to get this far south of OCPAC and of course Los Angeles. But this theater is in the middle of a city park. Once the sun goes down, stay at your OWN RISK. You will walk from the theater to your car in darkness and among homeless and yes, even some folks who are downright cray cray. read more

Went to see The Merry Wives of Windsor while on vacation in San Diego. So so good! Beautiful set, great cast, wonderful performance. Sitting outside in the evening watching theatre was such a pleasure. We ordered intermission drinks before the show, and they were waiting labeled for us on a table at the break. Will most definitely go back next time we are in San Diego, loved it. What a great evening out! Worth every penny read more

Last night we went to see Hair at The Old Globe Lowell Davies Festival Theatre, which is outdoors. Our seats were front row center, but there's not a bad seat in the house. The show was delayed about 45 minutes because of a freak thunder and lightning storm. Luckily there was no rain. I've seen Hair 3 times before and all I can say is that last nights' was "the best production ever." The singing was phenomenal and the music was exceptional. I may be going again before it ends October 3, 2021 I highly recommend it. read more

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What a beautiful theater! There isn't a bad seat in the house. Located in the amazingly gorgeous Balboa Park lies the historic Old Globe Theater. While not cheap, the Old Globe Theater is a wonderful theater that puts on spectacular performances! I recently saw Almost Famous here and I couldn't have been more pleased. Although it was $109 per ticket, it was absolutely worth every penny. This is a splendid venue, tucked in the vast garden that is Balboa Park. There is a nice selection of beverages, alcoholic and non, available at intermission so drink up. Also, the venue did not prevent us from bringing in a few of our own personal water bottles before the show, which was great. Fun fact: Balboa Park is bigger than Central Park in New York. The only downside is the parking. Since there really isn't dedicated parking for the venue, you're likely going to have to walk a long way from your car to the venue. I highly recommend dropping off anyone in your party right outside the venue if they have any issues with walking. Can't wait to return for another play! FYI, tickets to the shows here are a hot commodity so I highly recommend purchasing in advance! Cheers! read more

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Holidays are not Holidays without taking in a play and visiting balboa park. There's no place better for play goers than the old globe. It can seem a little pricey and parking's tough but it's just about the best entertainment around. read more

Amazing setting for world-class theater. Their productions never disappoint- worth every penny! Kudos!!!! PS - I have a role in an upcoming production which does not influence my review. It has been a goal for a while. read more

We saw Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story and it was not what I was expecting at all. We bought tickets on a whim, so perhaps others knew that it was a solo play. However, on the display and playbill it featured many people dressed in festive clothes, so we figured it was a normal rendition of Christmas Carol with multiple actors, costumes, set changes, props, etc. It was one man, in a suit, with no props, for 85 minutes acting out all of these characters. He is a great actor! But it just was not at all what I was expecting, especially based on past reviews. I realize now that the past reviews were based on another edition of Christmas Carol I guess? I was really hoping for a more festive play. I wish we had asked more but based on the marketing, Old Globe made the play seem like something it was not. Will probably not return to this theatre. read more

We saw A Midsummer Night's Dream recently. I have not been to the Old Globe for many years. Our seats were three rows back from the stage which was perfect. I don't think there is a bad seat in the Lowell Davies theater. The play itself was absolutely incredible. The costumes were delicious, the colors so brilliant. Will definitely be back for more! read more